Kids may love TV and video games. When most kids get home from school, they head straight for the fridge. Whether you’re there to whirl up a smoothie or not, here are some easy-to-make and make-ahead healthy snacks sure to energize them for a game of tag. With the exception of the smoothie and the pizza, they can all be made in advance, ensuring that 3 to 4 p.m. will be a happy hour for all.

Build a Better Snack

No amount of coercion or bribing will get kids to eat better. What will? Being a good role model by eating better yourself. Here are a few more tips to help:

1, Make healthy snacks accessible and visible. Set out a bowl of carrots and bell pepper sticks, grapes, cherry tomatoes or nuts for your kids to nibble on.

2. Try new things . . . and keep trying. It takes at least five times for kids to embrace new foods, so keep at it.

3. Make it fun. Kids will often eat foods they’re not familiar with if they’re presented in fun and unexpected ways. Serve brothy soups with a long straw or make carrots fun by sharpening with with a clean pencil sharpener. Whatever works.